I am a thief! I am a thief--in intention if not in act!" The effect of the word was tremendous.

A perfectly audible gasp went up from the breathless crowd; and, by one accord, the people rose and swayed upward towards the Sanctuary.
Calm and immovable as a rock, the Prophet held his place.
"Yes," he said, steadily, "until this morning I have virtually been a thief.

Until this morning it was my firm intention to take by force that which should have come to me as my right.

The fact that my intention faltered at the last moment does not affect the case.

I wish to make no appeal.